There are times when the drugs we are prescribed to make us better actually cause us harm. We trust doctors to make the right decisions and for the drugs we take to actually help us recover. But, some medications have ingredients that may cause additional health issues and dangerous side effects. Many of these dangerous prescription drugs are under investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or have been recalled for causing serious or fatal injuries.
Negative side effects that can result from dangerous prescription drugs include:
- Cancer Many prescription drugs have been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer.
- Depression and suicide Certain patients experience depression so severe that it leads to suicidal thoughts.
- Cardiovascular injuries Certain birth control medications, low testosterone therapies, and kidney dialysis drugs have been linked to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.
- Diabetes Some cholesterol drugs are designed to reduce risk of heart attacks but end up affecting the patient’s blood glucose levels, resulting in Type 2 diabetes.
There are many other dangerous side effects that result from prescription drugs as well. Antibiotics are often linked to bone health issues and birth defects. Antidepressants can lead to heart issues and devastating birth defects. Some birth control pills have hormones that can cause blood clots and some diabetes drugs have been linked to renal failure and pancreatitis. Just about every powerful prescription drug can result in life-changing symptoms.
Drug manufacturers are required to test their products for dangerous side effects. They must disclose the results of those tests. Drug manufacturers who knowingly distribute dangerous drugs can be held accountable for their actions with product liability claims.
Doctors must inform patients of the side effects that may result from taking a new prescription drug. Doctors who prescribe the wrong drugs or who fail to inform patients of negative side effects can be held responsible for their negligence with medical malpractice claims.
If you or someone you love has suffered harm because of a dangerous drug, make sure you speak with a skilled New York City personal injury attorney right away. You may be able to receive financial compensation for your losses while holding the at-fault parties accountable.
Contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP at (212) 986- 7353 to discuss your next steps.